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CAREER
DEVELOPMENT
HANDBOOK
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Table of Contents
1.Introduction to Global Education & Career Development
Internships: Getting Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Community Service/Volunteering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Jobs
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Instructions on the Use of CareerBridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Career Fairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Global Jobs, Internships and Careers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Networking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Informational Interviewing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Company Presentations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Alumni Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Social MediaLinkedIn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Professional Associations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Resume Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Online Resumes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Action Verbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Writing About Your SkillsPAR Statements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sample Resumes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Differences Between a CV and Resume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cover Letters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sample CVs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other Career Writing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.Interviewing
6. Academic Pathways
Choice of Major . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Global Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Global Education Opportunities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Study Abroad Opportunities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Distinguished Fellowships . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Graduate School Advising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Prehealth Advising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Academic Careers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sample Statement of Research Interests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sample Statement of Teaching Philosophy and Interests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Prehealth Advising
Building 12-185
Phone: (617) 715-5328 Fax: (617) 253-8457
Global Education
Building 12-189
Phone: (617) 253-0676 Fax: (617) 452-2101
Email: studyabroad@mit.edu for Study Abroad or
scholarships@mit.edu for Fellowships
http://gecd.mit.edu/goabroad
Hours: 9:00 a.m.5:00 p.m., MondayFriday
Staff
Executive Director
Melanie Parker
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7. Advertiser Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Administrative
Career Services
Prehealth Advising
Global Education
MISSION STATEMENT
Global Education & Career Development empowers MIT students and alumni to achieve lifelong success
through seamless access to transformative global experiences, comprehensive and holistic career
services and mutually beneficial connections with employers and graduate schools.
Introduction to Global
Education & Career
Development Staff
Melanie Parker
Career Services
Camille Cottrell
Rachel Greenberg
Receptionist
Deborah Liverman
Associate Director
Jordan Siegel
Recruiting Assistant/
Marketing Coordinator
Heather Law
Assistant Director
Amanda Peters
Nancy Richmond
Colin D. Smith
Assistant Director
Ellen Stahl
Marilyn Wilson
Senior Career
Development Specialist
Prehealth Advising
Shonool Malik
Tamara Menghi
Associate Director
Assistant Director
Erin Scott
Debra Shafran
Administrative Assistant
Global Education
Kim Benard
Program Advisor,
Distinguished Fellowships
Scott Murray
Administrative Assistant
Joshua Nupp
Assistant Dean
Malgorzata Hedderick
Associate Dean
Sarra Shubart
Administrative Assistant
http://gecd.mit.edu 5
Chapter 2.
Career Development Process
Career Development Pyramid
Knowledge of Employers
The pyramid above presents a model for how to conduct
a successful job search, where successful refers to
getting a job that is genuinely a good fit for you. Although
the process is actually dynamic and there is movement
back and forth among the different stages, the model
suggests that a successful job search encompasses four
basic steps. It begins with Self-Assessmentknowing
who you are and what you want, moves on to Exploration
of whats out there in terms of interesting industries and
occupations, progresses to Focusing on specific industries
and companies that appeal to you, and then culminates in
the nuts-and-bolts Job Search stage, involving sending out
resumes, interviewing, and negotiating job offers.
You might find it helpful to look through the following
questionnaire, Testing Your Career Fitness. You can use
this as a checklist to see how ready you currently are to
conduct a successful job search, and as a guide to help you
effectively and confidently prepare for your job search.
G Self Assessment g
At the base of our model pyramid, providing the essential
foundation for the rest of the job search, is self-assessment,
or knowing yourself. Thoughtful self-assessment streamlines
the remaining steps of the job search, helping you to focus on
organizations and careers compatible with your goals, and
enabling you to market yourself knowledgeably and confidently. Three aspects that are important to consider when
choosing a career are: interests, values, and skills. Being
able to clearly articulate these on a resume and during an
interview will promote a good fit with potential employers.
Career Services offers specific self-assessment inventories such as the Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and
Strong Interest Inventory to students during counseling
appointments, if both student and counselor think its
appropriate.
Interests
__ Inner Harmony
__ Job Security
__ Leadership
__ Leisure
__ Location
__ Personal Growth
__ Physical Activity
__ Pleasure
__ Precision
__ Recognition
__ Responsibility
__ Stability
__ Variety
Skills
Values
Values are ideals and core beliefs that are important to us;
they give meaning and purpose to what we do. We are most
http://gecd.mit.edu 7
Freshman Year
For tips on how to manage your professional development at each stage of your degree program, use the timeline below (if you are an undergaduate) or see Masters,
Doctoral and Postdoc versions, on our website,
http://gecd.mit.edu.
Academics
qTest your interests through coursework, UROPs, volunteer jobs, and student activities.
qMeet your professors. Learn how to build your network
by taking advantage of their office hours. Get to know
at least one professor well every year.
qIdentify four to seven career fields that interest you
and research how academic training supports those
careers. Meet with a Career Counselor to discuss
majors as they relate to careers. Read up on the
careers that interest you. Arrange informational
interviews with alumni working in those fields,
http://alum.mit.edu/benefits/CareerGuidance/ICAN.
qAttend the Choice of Major Fair in the fall. Freshmen
are expected to pick a major in April, but you may
remain Undecided until sophomore year.
Extracurricular Involvement
qGet involved in dorm activities, student organizations, or public service projects. Explore social and
academic clubs that interest you. Join at least one
extracurricular activity.
qAsk for help if you need it! That is what Resident
Assistants, Freshman Advisors, Teaching Assistants,
and Counselors are for!
Sophomore Year
Academics
Extracurricular Involvement
Junior Year
Academics
Extracurricular Involvement
qSend for career materials from professional associations and consider joining one as a student member.
qContinue to explore your values, interests, and skills
through involvement with clubs, student organizations,
and volunteer activities.
Senior Year
Academics
http://gecd.mit.edu 9
Extracurricular Involvement
Here are some suggestions for how you can learn about the
enormous range of industries and occupations available to
you. Think expansively and creatively!
1) Read about industries, organizations, occupations in:
Occupational Outlook Handbook: www.bls.gov/oco
O*Net Online: http://online.onetcenter.org
WetFeet Career Guides (available through
CareerBridge) www.myinterfase.com/mit/student
Websites, for example:
www.collegegrad.com/careers/all.shtml
Newspapers and magazines
Trade magazines and newsletters
Career books and career websites
2) Notice the jobs around you, especially those done by family,
friends, acquaintances and others. Ask people about:
Their career path
How they feel about their work
What tips and advice do they have to offer
3) Browse the MIT Alumni Directory on: http://alum.mit.edu
and ICAN website:
What are alumni from your major doing?
From other majors?
Who are they working for?
4) Talk to business/industry people:
Talk with your advisor and faculty about opportunities
for people with your academic training
Attend student association events sponsored by
various departments
Take part in career fairs
Conduct informational interviews with people in occupations and organizations that interest you
On-campus recruiting
Networking
Internship led to job offer
Career fair
Professional conference
Contacts acquired through Global Education & Career Development
Through department (faculty, academic administrator)
Directly applied to employer
Advertised job listing (online, print)
Other
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GFocusing
Job Search Strategies g
Focus on some industries and occupations that appeal to
you, and research them in greater depth.
Researching organizations that interest you helps you
decide which companies might offer a good fit for your
occupational goals and interests. In addition, it is essential preparation prior to interviewing effectively with a
company. For an in-depth discussion on how to research a
company see www.learnwebskills.com/company.
hat you should know about a company:
W
Size of organization (comparison to other
companies in industry)
Number of years in business, history of organization
Geographical locations, corporate headquarters
Products and services, clientele
Age and background of top management
Values, company culture
Organizational structure, climate
Current financial condition
Annual sales growth for past five years
Competition
Reputation
Future outlook
News stories about company, any new developments, trends
here can you learn about companies and
W
organizations?
Company websites
Annual reports: contact companies for copies of these
Trade associations: print and web materials
News articles about companies and executives:
newspapers, journals (use online search engines,
e.g., www.google.com)
Online references: e.g., WetFeet Career Guides,
available through CareerBridge
Directories: e.g., CorpTech, Standard & Poors
Corporation Records
Talk to employees: network, MIT alumni directory
Researching Companies
information about a companys investment status, management, products and markets. You can also use the databases
to generate lists of leads.
Sample of listings:
ABI/INFORM Global
Bloomberg
Business Source Complete
Corptech
Forrester Research
Hoovers Online
I/B/E/S
InfoTech Trends
Investext
ISI Emerging Markets
LexisNexis Academic
Morningstar Principia Pro Plus
Reference USA
SDC Platinum
TAQ
VentureXpert
For a video tutorial on how to use these databases, see
http://libguides.mit.edu/video.
http://gecd.mit.edu 11
Organize your job search. Find a method that works for you.
Use an electronic diary, ring binder, file folders, computer
reminders, database, or scheduler. Keep track of:
1) Job search ideas
2)
Chapter 3.
Internships, Jobs and Networking
Internships: Getting Experience
alum.mit.edu/students/NetworkwithAlumni/ExternshipProgram
http://gecd.mit.edu 13
Community Service/Volunteering
Put your communication, teamwork, and leadership skills
to use while giving back to the community. Refer to MITs
Public Service Center for ideas: http://web.mit.edu/mitpsc.
Jobs
MIT has some excellent resources to help you with traditional job search methodsresponding to advertised
positions. Two important resources are: 1) CareerBridge,
MITs On- and Off-Campus Recruiting and Career
Management system, which allows companies and organizations to post available job and internship positions for
our students to apply to, and 2) Career Fairs, where students
can meet employers, learn more about opportunities with
their organizations, and in many cases apply for available
positions.
Be sure to review the sections on Exploring Your Options
and Job Search in Chapter 2 of this Handbook, pages 10 -12
so you understand how to conduct an effective job search.
For information on how to find leads through the most effective job search method, networking, please see the final
sections in this chapter beginning with Networking, pages
21 - 23.
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Career Fairs
Career Fairs are a great way to connect with potential
employers. Many professional groups hold public career fairs
which are advertised through newspapers. At MIT, career
fairs are organized and run by a number of student organizations. Career Services holds an annual career week in the fall
to prepare students for the Career Fair. This is a tremendous
opportunity for students to meet a wide variety of employers.
Keep in mind that career fairs should be just one small part
of your entire job search process; however, they can be a
successful part. Here are some useful tips to help make the
most of your career fair experience.
database of country-specific career and employment information, updated regularly. There are five main functional
areas of interest in Going Global:
The Country Career Guides offer country-specific
career information and provide expert advice on finding
employment at home and abroad.
The Canada City Career Guides allow you to explore
career and employment opportunities in the largest
cities across Canada (these are linked to the Country
Career Guide for Canada).
Job and Internship Postings across the globe.
Employer Directorysearch for employers in industries
of your choice.
H1B Informationthose carrying this VISA can search
for US employers who applied for H1B visas in the prior
year. Search by city and state.
Some additional global resources include:
MISTI (MIT International Science and Technology
Initiative): http://web.mit.edu/MISTIinternships and
research abroad (see page 14 of this Handbook)
PSC (MIT Public Service Center): http://web.mit.edu/
mitpscmany and varied international opportunities
Going Abroad: http://www.goabroad.comInformation
on a variety of global opportunities
Fulbright English Teaching Assistantships: http://www.
iie.org/fulbrightAwards grants to students to pursue
their studies, research or teach English abroad
Peace Corps: http://www.peacecorps.govThis
is considered the ultimate volunteer resource for
Americans
BUNAC: http://bunac.orgProvides authorization to
work in several different countries short term
Global Placement: http://www.globalplacement.com
Offers job openings in many different locations around
the world
Networking
Networking Defined
Prepare a brief introductory script. This should be a oneminute summary of your interests, goals and your needs
right now. Practice by telling as many people in the above
list as you can. Once you are comfortable with your pitch,
start asking if they know of anyone who you should contact.
You can then start contacting these people by phone or email.
A script will sound something like: I am in my junior year at
MIT and have a particular interest in Engineering Logistics.
I hope to ultimately apply my degree to product and inventory management. Right now I am trying to learn more about
the actual experience of people working in these areas.
Could you spare some time to speak with me about the
current trends and opportunities in this field? Or ... Do you
know anyone I could speak with in order to find out more
about the field?
If you have found the contact person through another
person your script might be:
My name is Sandra Chee. I am due to graduate from
MIT in 6 months time. I received your name from your
companys recruiting representative, David Jones, who
suggested that I contact you. I am studying biological
http://gecd.mit.edu 21
Informational Interviewing
Step 3: Arrange an Informational Interview
This script then forms the basis of an email that you might
write to someone with whom you would like to have an
informational interview. The first networking email may be
like a mini cover letter. Use an email subject line that will be
clear and encourage your reader to open the emailyou
might write something like Question from an MIT Student.
If you prefer, you can try to call the person directly to set up
an informational interview at a later date.
Prepare for your informational interviews just as you would
for an actual job interview: polish your presentation and
listening skills, and conduct preliminary research on the
organization. You should outline an agenda that includes
well-thought-out questions.
Your networking meeting should include the following
elements: introduction, self-overview, Q & A, obtaining
referrals and closing.
Begin your interview with questions that demonstrate your
genuine interest in the other person such as, Could you
describe some of the projects (or issues) that you work
on? or What might a typical work week look like for you?
Then proceed with more general questions such as, What
are the employment prospects in this field? or Are you
active in any professional organizations in our field and
which would you recommend? If appropriate, venture into
a series of questions that place the employer in the advicegiving role, such as, What should the most important
consideration be in my first job? Be sure to ask for referrals to other professionals. You could also ask their opinion
about your resume.
Company Presentations
MIT hosts employer panels and company presentations.
Representatives from the leading industries and companies
present on the trends of that industry and the opportunities that one can pursue within the industry. These may be
followed by a reception for attendees.
Try to personally meet the representatives and ask
thoughtful questions to gain information about the industry in
general and their company specifically. The person you are
networking with may not have a job opening, but he or she
may know someone who is hiring. The key is to exchange
information and then expand your network by obtaining additional referrals each time you meet someone new.
Search our new website, http://gecd.mit.edu for company
presentations.
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Social MediaLinkedIn
LinkedIn is a business-oriented, professional networking
site. LinkedIn allows you to maintain a list of contacts,
or connections, of people you know in the professional world. It also allows you to post your professional
background and experience, upload resumes and other
pertinent career information, and allow other users to
search your profile. It allows you to join groups of other
like minded individuals, people who may share an industry
interest or involvement. LinkedIn is an excellent resource
to connect and be introduced to people in your field,
research company profiles, and find and post jobs:
http://www.linkedin.com.
Professional Associations
Professional Associations can be an excellent resource for
job seekers. Through their various activities and services
http://gecd.mit.edu 23
Chapter 4.
Resume and Career Writing
Resume Guidelines
Your resume should be a concise summary of the high
points of your education, work experience, and other
qualifications relevant to your audiences needs and to
your employment interests, not a complete history of your
life. It communicates your professional qualifications
to employers, to interest them in interviewing you, and
it creates their first impression of you. It is a marketing
tool and an introduction to you and your experiences. Do
enough research about the employer and the field to decide
which messages are most important to your audience, and
communicate these messages succinctly and clearly in a
visually appealing format. Here are some guidelines to help
you do this:
Presentation Checklist
Format
Content
Style
Final Edit
Online Resumes
Though scanning technology and practices vary and are
constantly changing, some companies still scan resumes
and/or use keywords to identify candidates from their database. You want to fill your resume with as many of these
words as possible. Companies that pick up many resumes
at career fairs may use scanning technology, though you
should always check with the employer requirements
regarding format.
The essential keywords are specified by each employer for
each position. You can only make reasonable assumptions
about what a specific employer will ask for. Keep a log of
keywords that apply to your occupation and industry.
http://gecd.mit.edu 25
Action Verbs
Management Skills
Administered
Analyzed
Assigned
Chaired
Consolidated
Contracted
Coordinated
Delegated
Developed
Directed
Evaluated
Executed
Organized
Oversaw
Planned
Prioritized
Produced
Recommended
Reorganized
Reviewed
Scheduled
Supervised
Spoke
Translated
Wrote
Communication Skills
Addressed
Arbitrated
Arranged
Authored
Co-authored
Collaborated
Corresponded
Developed
Directed
Drafted
Enlisted
Formulated
Influenced
Interpreted
Lectured
Mediated
Moderated
Negotiated
Persuaded
Promoted
Proposed
Publicized
Reconciled
Recruited
Technical Skills
Assembled
Built
Calculated
Computed
Designed
Devised
Engineered
Fabricated
Maintained
Operated
Pinpointed
Programmed
Remodeled
Repaired
Solved
Research Skills
Clarified
Collected
Critiqued
Diagnosed
Evaluated
Examined
Extracted
Identified
Inspected
Inspired
Interpreted
Interviewed
Investigated
Organized
Reviewed
Summarized
Surveyed
Systemized
Teaching Skills
Adapted
Advised
Clarified
Coached
Communicated
Conducted
Coordinated
Developed
Enabled
Encouraged
Evaluated
Explained
Facilitated
Guided
Informed
Instructed
Lectured
Persuaded
Set goals
Stimulated
Taught
Trained
Financial Skills
Administered
Allocated
Analyzed
Appraised
Audited
Balanced
Budgeted
Calculated
Computed
Developed
Managed
Planned
Projected
Researched
Creative Skills
Acted
Conceptualized
Created
Customized
Designed
Developed
Directed
Established
Fashioned
Illustrated
Instituted
Integrated
Performed
Planned
Proved
Revised
Revitalized
Set up
Shaped
Streamlined
Structured
Tabulated
Validated
Helping Skills
Assessed
Assisted
Clarified
Coached
Counseled
Demonstrated
Diagnosed
Educated
Facilitated
Familiarized
Guided
Inspired
Motivated
Participated
Provided
Referred
Rehabilitated
Reinforced
Represented
Supported
Taught
Trained
Verified
Clerical or Detail
Skills
Approved
Arranged
Catalogued
Classified
Collected
Compiled
Dispatched
Executed
Filed
Generated
Implemented
Inspected
Monitored
Operated
Ordered
Organized
Prepared
Processed
Purchased
Recorded
Retrieved
Screened
Specified
Systematized
Stronger Verbs for
Accomplishments
Accelerated
Achieved
Attained
Completed
Conceived
Convinced
Discovered
Doubled
Effected
Eliminated
Expanded
Expedited
Founded
Improved
Increased
Initiated
Innovated
Introduced
Invented
Launched
Mastered
Originated
Overcame
Overhauled
Pioneered
Reduced
Resolved
Revitalized
Spearheaded
Strengthened
Transformed
Upgraded
From To Boldly Go: Practical Career Advice for Scientists, by Peter S. Fiske
26
After:
Before:
After:
http://gecd.mit.edu 27
Your resume should describe your experience in the form of PAR statements: project, activity and result.
The following exercise will help you to describe your skills. Complete the following worksheet describing your own
experiences by using: Project + action verb + activity + result/outcome/benefit.
Project/purpose
28
Result/outcome/benefit
Sample Resumes
Sample Resume Before Corrections
30
MIT Student
gjob@mit.edu
c# 777-777-7777
Home Address:
1 Hometown St.
Anywhere, USA
Cambridge, MA
June 2012
McDonalds
Team Member
Received cashier and food handling training
Worked in a fast paced environment
Served 100+ people per day
Anytown, USA
Jun 2007-Jan 2008
Activities
& Awards
http://gecd.mit.edu 31
School Address:
77 Engineer St.
Cambridge, MA 02139
Freshman Resume
studentone@mit.edu
(xxx) xxx-xxxx
Home Address:
xxx College St.
Centertown, Newstate xxxxx
Education
Cambridge, MA
June 2014
Southtown, NS
May 2010
Leadership
Experience
Work
Experience
Area Supermarkets
W. Southtown, NS
Clerk and Bagger
January 2010-May 2010
Provided customer service to 100+ people per day. Bagged groceries and received cashier training.
Taco Bell
W. Southtown, NS
Team Member
June 2009-January 2010
Received cashier and food handling training, worked in a fast-paced environment, and experienced
assembly-line teamwork. Served 100+ people per day.
Activities
& Awards
September 2010-Present
August 2006-May 2010
March 2010
32
Firstyear Resume
Room 123 MIT Dorm, 987 Institute Drive Cambridge, MA 02139 Phone: (617) xxx-xxxx Email: firstyear@mit.edu
Education
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MA
Candidate for Bachelor of Science degree in Biology
June 2015
Relevant courses: Introductory Biology, Introduction to Molecular Biology Techniques, Introduction to
Neuroanatomy, and Introduction to Psychology
My High School
GPA: 4.76/5.00 (top ten in a class of 440)
Work
Experience
Nicetown Hospital
Nicetown, XY
Volunteer
Sept. 2008 June 2011
Managed front desk of the Fitness Center and maintained general upkeep and organization of the gym.
Interacted with on average 15 people each day. Volunteered 140 hours total.
Leadership
Mytown, XY
June 2011
Skills Lab: Molecular Biology Techniques (ex. genomic DNA extraction and purification, oligonucleotide design and
polymerase chain reaction, bacteriophage plating and propagation, etc.)
Technology: Microsoft Office, Adobe InDesign, and Adobe Photoshop
Foreign Languages: Basic understanding of Korean and French
Activities/
Interests
Honors/
Awards
Williams College Book Award (top 5 percentile; Exceptional Leadership and Community Service)
NE Scholastic Press Association Journalism Award (Scholastic Editing and Publishing Achievement)
ACL Youth Scholarship (Academic Excellence, Community Service, and Leadership)
Varsity Swim Team Most Valuable Player Award
http://gecd.mit.edu 33
School Address:
XXX Memorial Dr.
Cambridge, MA 02139
Home Address:
Someplace, MA
Education
Experience
PUTNAM ASSOCIATES
BURLINGTON, MA
Analyst
2005
Evaluated in 6-member team whether clients marketing strategy for its $100M organ transplant drug effectively
targets key decision-makers in transplant community. Client implemented proposed improvements in message content and delivery, designed to increase prescriptions for product by nearly 30%.
Managed recruitment and interviewing process of 98 physicians to obtain primary data for marketing case. Analyzed
data from interviews and secondary research in Excel/Access. Prepared PowerPoint deck for presentation to client.
Analyzed past product switches from predecessor to successor drugs for independent project. Presented recommendations
for future drug launches. Developed a database providing key criteria for launching various types of drugs.
Leadership
34
Jane Doe
someone@mit.edu
(XXX) XXX-XXXX
Awards &
Interests
Robert C. Byrd Scholarship, awarded to top 1% of U.S. students for academic excellence.
Rensselaer Medal, awarded to top 20,000 students worldwide for achievements in mathematics and science.
Interest in track & field, travel, photography, and oncology.
345 Infinity Drive
Cambridge, MA 02139
Matha Maddox
matha@mit.edu
(617-XXX-XXXX)
My Street
My City, My Country
EDUCATION
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Cambridge, MA
Candidate for a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics with Computer Science
June 2013
Candidate for a minor in Management
GPA: 4.6/5.0
Relevant Coursework: Probability and Statistics, Algebra, Analysis, Discrete Math, Managerial Psychology Laboratory
EXPERIENCE
Telecommunications Company
Paris, France
Operations Research Analyst
June 2010 Present
Assessed financial risks involved with participating in online advertising-space exchanges
Devised bidding policies for auctions at the exchanges that led to victories three times out of five and built mathematical models
around these policies to increase the companys margin from online ad-spaces by 5%
MIT Sloan School of Management
Cambridge, MA
Undergraduate Researcher
June 2010 - October 2010
Conducted experimental prediction markets with human and artificial intelligence to find the best tools to predict future events such
as election-results or the stock market
Developed an experiment-procedure online that reduced bias by eliminating involvement of the experimenter and saved two hours
and $200 per experiment
MIT Center for Collective Intelligence
Cambridge, MA
Undergraduate Researcher
June 2010 October 2010
Conducted individual and group IQ/EQ tests on human subjects to formulate ways to measure and predict the performance of
individuals working as part of a team and the efficacy of the team dynamic
Saved four hours of experiment-time per day by redesigning the experiment-procedure so that each experiment could be held with
three fewer researchers and up to six experiments could be held at the same time
MIT Tech Callers
Cambridge, MA
Caller
February 2010 - June 2010
Communicated with MIT alumni on behalf of the MIT Alumni Association and raised $5,000 in donations
LEADERSHIP
MIT Student Cultural Association
Treasurer
Managed $10,000 worth of finances for a group of 400 students and raised $3,000 in funds for their events
Created an online system for reimbursements that made the process faster and reduced paperwork
Cambridge, MA
May 2010-Present
http://gecd.mit.edu 35
36
Education
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MA
Candidate for Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering, June 2007.
Relevant coursework: Entrepreneurship Lab, Product Design, Preliminary Venture Analysis,
Applied Math for Engineers. GPA: 4.8/5.0
Brookings, SD
Experience
Edelman Lab, MIT
Cambridge, MA
2005-current
Examined implantation of a medical device (stents) in human arteries. Identified the
contribution of the geometry as well as material properties of the arterial walls. Drew
interpretations by assessing the response of arteries to these devices using numerical
techniques (finite element methods).
Gas Turbine Lab, MIT
Cambridge, MA
2004-2005
Analyzed a propeller connector (hub) for a vertical test stand to be used in the study and
control of flow patterns around propellers. Calculated design parameters, and strength
evaluation using software such as Patran. Created models using computer aided design
tools (Pro-Engineer).
Skills
Computer: Fortran, Matlab, HTML, UNIX, some JAVA and Visual Basic; Computer aided
design: Pro-Engineer, Ideas; Numerical analysis: ADINA, Patran;
Language: Proficient: English, Hindi; Conversational: Russian; Basic French, Korean,
Arabic.
Leadership/Extracurricular
Managed 150 students as a Resident Assistant at SDSU. Columnist at South Dakota State
Univ; Wrote articles in the MIT campus newspaper. Published poem in anthology of new artists.
Honors/Awards
Pi Tau Sigma, Tau Beta Pi engineering Honor societies; Sigma Pi Sigma outstanding
Physics student of the year 2000-2001; Perry W. Williams Prize 2002-2003; Wilton
McCown Scholarship 2001-2002.
http://gecd.mit.edu 37
77 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
Joe Resume
EDUCATION
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA
Masters of Science in Computer Science and Mechanical Engineering
Phone: 617-253-XXXX
Email: XXX@mit.edu
GPA: 5.0/5.0
2008 (expected)
2005
RELEVANT SKILLS
Software Excel spreadsheets including Sensitivity Analysis, Monte Carlo simulation, and modeling uncertainties; C, C++,
Matlab, Saphire (probabilistic analysis tool) MS Word and MS PowerPoint.
Courses Coursework covering fundamentals of finance, economics, statistics, risk-benefit and decision analysis, Options in
engineering, and engineering math.
Projects Simulated stock prices using Hidden-Markov-Models (Course - Statistics); researched system design optimization
techniques as part of a course portfolio (Course - Engineering Options).
EXPERIENCE
Osio Corporation, Boston, MA
Business Intern
2006 Present
Developed Excel spreadsheet model for valuation of the start-ups revenue prospects over the next ten years.
Collaborated with management team in researching and identifying market segments for the new product.
Currently working on evaluating strategies to be adopted for market deployment and future expansion.
X Corporation, City, State
Part-time Consultant
Optimized and redesigned the system to reduce manufacturing costs by 40% and system size by 20%.
Appraised final results of analysis to senior management at the client site and at MIT. Conducted weekly client
update sessions
Center for Product Design, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
Intern for Program in Teaching Innovation
Deliberated with professors and fellow students on issues concerning barriers to student learning.
Identified and specified strategies aimed at teaching innovations and translated them into actionable objectives.
Implemented a key objective by developing a flexible teaching tool for an advanced graduate course.
Bharat Electronics Limited, Bangalore, India
Technical Analyst
Analyzed a structural component and identified its critical design parameters.
Redesigned and optimized the component.
2006
2003
2004
LEADERSHIP
Chief Course Coordinator, MIT Formulated the syllabus and developed the course content for an undergraduate design
engineering course. Organized lectures and led undergraduate assistants in conducting lab tutorials for 200 undergraduate
students..
Innovative Teaching, MIT: Formulated new teaching approaches as part of an HP sponsored focus-group trial.
Community Service Officer, MIT Planned and organized community events for fostering greater interactions amongst
graduate students. Received Outstanding Officer Award for organizational excellence.
Circulation Manager and News Reporter, Graduate Student News Magazine, MIT: Managed monthly distribution of
5000 copies of magazine on MIT campus. Popularized Cryptic Crosswords at MIT.
Mentor, IIT Madras Mentored 15 freshmen during the senior year at IIT Madras.
INTERESTS AND ACTIVITIES
Story-Telling v Cryptic-Crosswords v Teaching Innovations v News Reporting vTennisv Piano
HONORS AND ACHIEVEMENTS
Government of India Fellowship (2001-2005) v Certificates of distinction for National Math, Physics and Chemistry
Olympiads v Summa Cum Laude in high school v Ranked in top 0.3% for IITs
38
http://gecd.mit.edu 39
40
Awards,
Winner of National Science Foundation Poster Competition (2000); Sigma Xi Engineering Research
Honors Honors Society (1997); Harvey Stern Fellowship, MIT (1996); Fox Prize for Outstanding Performance in
Chemical Engineering, Cambridge University (1996); Verhaydn de Lancy Prize for Outstanding Contribution
to Trinity College (1995); Mobil Prize for Best Performance in Chemical Engineering, Cambridge University
(1995); Senior Scholarship for Outstanding Academic Performance, Trinity College, Cambridge (1994);
Student Scholarship, United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (1992-1996)
Activities
Dancing (MIT Salsa Club), Classical Guitar, MIT Debating Club, MIT European Club Soccer Team
http://gecd.mit.edu 41
ANONYMOUS STUDENT
Jan. 2002-present
1995-2002
1994-1995
HARVARD UNIVERSITY
Cambridge, MA
Undergraduate Researcher. Dept. of Earth and Planetary Sciences.
Constructed compositional model of the Earths deep interior by comparing theoretical
seismic velocity of experimental charges with observed seismic velocities.
Performed and analyzed ultra-high pressure experiments.
Skills Computer: MatLab, some HTML and VBA, convection modeling using pre-existing finite
element code, PC and Mac spreadsheet, text, and drawing programs (Illustrator, Canvas,...)
Analytical: Electron microprobe, ion microprobe, XRF, ICP-MS.
Awards/Activities National Merit Scholarship (1991-1995), Best Senior Thesis - Harvard Geology Club (1995).
Officer - Harvard Geology Club (1994-1995), Chairman of Board - Agassiz Cooperative
Preschool (1998-1999), ultimate, basketball, hiking, gardening, reading.
Publications 2 first author (refereed), 1 co-author (refereed), 8 conference presentations, and 5 co-author on
presentation abstract. A detailed list of publications is available upon request.
42
http://gecd.mit.edu 43
Cirriculum Vitae
Resume
What is it?
44
Cambridge, MA
student@mit.edu
Cambridge, MA
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
Cambridge, MA
Cambridge, MA
Estimated the secular cooling of the Earths mantle by applying predictive model to
mantle melting.
mantle melting.
(Jan. 2004-present)
phase relations.
Experience
Research
Awards National Merit Scholarship (1993-1997), Awarded best senior thesis by Harvard
Predicted Seismic Velocity of the Mantle Transition Zone Based on High Pressure
BA, Earth and Planetary Sciences, Cum Laude, June 1997. Senior Thesis: The
Research focuses on the production of magmas in the Aleutian arc using experiments
Education
(617) 000-0000
(617) 253-0000
Cambridge, MA 02140
Cambridge, MA 02139
Bldg. XX-XXX
0 Imaginary Ave.
Home Address:
Business Address:
ANONYMOUS STUDENT 1
Cambridge, MA
Boston, MA
(1997-Jan. 2004)
Determined the solubility of He in olivine with the goal of understanding the extent
element codes. This geodynamic study was combined with petrologic data to
Cambridge, MA
Igneous, Metamorphic, and Sedimentary Petrology. Teaching Assistant.
Cambridge, MA
Presentations Anonymous Student 1, Grove TL, Dann JC (Kaapvaal conference, 2003) The
separate classes. Challenge was to compress three semesters of work into one, while
curriculum. This was the first time this class was taught. Previously existed as three
Experience
Teaching
Sample CV #1
http://gecd.mit.edu 45
46
Agee CB, Li J, Anonymous Student 1 (Spring AGU, 1996) P-T phase diagram for
Agee CB, Anonymous Student 1 (Fall AGU, 1996) Upper mantle transition zone: a
augite compositions.
Magmatic trace and minor element abundances in Barberton komatiites inferred from
Anonymous Student 1, Grove TL, Shimizu N, Dann J, de Wit M (Fall AGU, 1999)
Anonymous Student 1, Grove TL, Dann J, de Wit M (Spring AGU, 1999) Pyroxene
1999) Origin of spinifex textures in 3.49 Ga komatiite magmas from the Barberton
2000) Mass transfer processes in the southern cascade subduction zone: the influence
Grove TL, Gaetani GA, Anonymous Student 1, Elkins LT (Materials Recycling near
multi-anvil device.
Basalts, 2002) Petrologic and experimental evidence for high H2O contents in
Dr. Who
Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Bldg. XX-XXXX
Cambridge, MA 02139 USA
(617)253-0000
who@mit.edu
Dr. Blank
Department of Geology and Geophysics
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution
Woods Hole, MA 02543
(508)000-0000
blank@whoi.edu
Dr. Anonymous
Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Bldg. XX-XXX
Cambridge, MA 02139 USA
(617)253-0002
anonymous@.mit.edu
References
Home Address
10 Home Street
Apt. # 2D
Cornish, NH 03745
(603) XXX-XXX
Howard University, Department of Chemistry
Washington, DC
Adviser: Phillip Grey
Synthesized analogs of the natural product distamycin A, which binds to DNA in the
minor groove. Synthesis involved imidazole chemistry with amidine linkages and end
groups for electrostatic interaction with DNA. (June - August 1994)
Caltech Department of Chemistry
Pasadena, CA
Advisor: Brian Jones
Explored sequence-specific recognition of minor groove of double-helical DNAbinding properties through polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Results from this work
expanded sequence repertoire available to pyrrole-imidazole polyamides and provided
general criteria for design of future sequence-specific DNA-binding polyamides.
Determined compatibility of oligonucleotide and a polyimide binding simultaneously
in the major and minor grooves, respectively. Techniques used include synthesis,
NMR spectroscopy, HPLC, column chromatography, polyacrylamide gel
electrophoresis, solid-phase peptide synthesis including HF cleavage and
deprotection, oligonucleotide synthesis and purification, radioactive labeling of DNA,
cloning specific sequences into plasmids, DNA sequencing. (September 1995 - May
2000)
Research
MIT Department of Chemical Engineering
Cambridge, MA
Experience
Advisor: John Smith
Currently developing methodology for ribonucleic acid encapsulation in nanosphere
particles using biodegradable polymers for ultimate use in gene therapy applications.
Examining methods for chemical derivation of the polymer/RNA nanospheres for
targeting specific cell types. Work involves polymer synthesis and characterization,
GPC, cellular targeting. (August 2000 - present)
Awards Carolyn Vogel Chemistry Scholarship (2001), Howard Advantage Student (1994), Phi
Beta Kappa (1994), General Electric Fellowship (1995-1996), National Institutes of
Health Postdoctoral (2000).
Kansai Gaidai
Hirakata City, Japan
Foreign exchange student. Studies included Japanese language and intercultural
communication. Lived with a Japanese family. (August - December 1994)
California Institute of Technology
Pasadena, CA
Ph.D. Department of Chemistry, May 2000. Thesis: Sequence-Specific Recognition of
DNA in the Minor Groove by Imidazole and Pyrrole-Containing Polyamides.
Howard University
Washington, DC
Bachelor of Science, Chemistry, Magna Cum Laude, April 1995. Participated in
summer undergraduate research program resulting in thesis and presentation. Thesis:
Synthesis of Imidazole-Containing and Amidine-Linked Analogs of Distamycin.
Education
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, MA
National Institutes of Health Postdoctoral Fellow. Department of Chemical
Engineering. Research focuses on encapsulation of ribonucleic acid (RNA) into
polymer nanospheres for delivery to human cells. (August 2000-present)
Business Address
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
89 Ames Street 61-210
Cambridge, MA 02139
(617) XXX-XXX
jdoe@mit.edu
Jane Doe
References
Professor X
Professor Y
Professor Z
Chair, Chemistry Department Department of Chemistry
Department of Chemistry
M.I.T.
M.I.T.
California Institute of Technology
77 Massachusetts Ave., 11-22 77 Massachusetts Ave., 11-21 400 Rodeo Drive, 44-50
Cambridge, MA 02139
Cambridge, MA 02139
Pasadena, CA 55882
617-253-0000
617-253-1111
908-570-0000
x@mit.edu
y@mit.edu
z@caltech.edu
Publications Optimization of the Hairpin Polymide Design for Recognition of the Minor Groove
of DNA. J. Doe, B.B Cummings, and J.J. Reynolds, Journal of the American
Chemical Society, 2000, 5, 118, 1047.
Howard University Department of Chemistry
Washington, D.C.
Laboratory Techniques in Organic and Inorganic Chemistry. Teaching Assistant.
Supervised and assisted students with multi-step syntheses of compounds designed to
teach general laboratory techniques. (January - June 1995)
Introductory Chemistry. Head Teaching Assistant.
Prepared teaching materials including problem sets and exams. Supervised other
teaching assistants and graders. Addressed individual students questions and needs.
(January - June 1998)
Organic Chemistry Laboratory. Teaching Assistant.
Supervised and instructed students in organic chemistry techniques. Emphasized
keeping complete and accurate scientific notes. (January - June 1995)
Teaching
Caltech, Department of Chemistry
Pasadena, CA
Experience
Organic Chemistry. Teaching Assistant.
Helped write problem sets and exams. Assisted students individually with homework
problems or material they found difficult to understand. (September 1999 - June 2000)
Sample CV #2
http://gecd.mit.edu 47
Cover Letters
You will have to write a number of letters to employers
while looking for a job. One type of letter is the cover letter,
which you send with your resume when you are requesting
a job interview. Other letters are those you write following
up interviews, arranging company site visits, and accepting
or rejecting job offers. See the examples on the next pages.
Here are some tips:
State clearly in your opening sentence the purpose for
the letter. Then use the rest of the letter to support your
candidacy.
Be sure that each cover letter is specifically tailored to
the company to which you are writing. Research the
company to help you determine your approach. Check the
companys website and other resources on the Internet.
If you are seeking a position that is a departure from
or an unexpected application of your academic
September 1, 2011
77 Massachusetts Ave.
Cambridge, MA 02139
48
Recruiters Name
Campus Recruiter
Company Name
Company Address
Boston, MA 02116
Jane Doe
XXX Memorial Drive
Cambridge, MA 02139
janedoe@mit.edu
(617) XXX-XXXX
Dear Campus Recruiter:
I am a senior at MIT majoring in biology with a concentration in management from Sloan Business School. I was
extremely impressed with Deloittes approach to consulting after speaking with Yelena Shklovskaya. Deloitte is
unique in having the ability to form diverse teams to tackle all the problems a client may have. As a member of
the Strategy & Operations group, I may have the opportunity to meet and work with a variety of people in this
consulting group, in other areas of consulting, and outside of consulting as well. In particular, I like the amount of
attention and dedication that Deloitte puts into working with its clients, not only by devising effective strategies to
address the clients problems, but also by often implementing the recommendations on-site. Therefore, I am
writing to request an invitation to interview for a Business Analyst position with Deloitte.
In the past two years, I have been involved in strategy consulting, pharmaceuticals, and government affairs for a
non-profit healthcare organization. This summer, I worked in strategy consulting for Putnam Associates. My
6-member team evaluated the marketing efforts for a major pharmaceutical companys organ transplant drug.
Through my management of recruitment and interviews with 98 physicians, I obtained primary research and
analyzed it on national and regional levels to recommend and help implement improvements in the clients
marketing plan. I learned how to work in a deadline-oriented environment, held responsibility for large segments
of a team project, and enhanced my quantitative skills through analysis of primary and secondary research data. In
addition, I conducted independent research to form recommendations when launching a drug that follows a related
product, and I presented these key considerations to all Putnam employees.
I have been a volunteer in public policy for 7 years with the March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation. I lobbied
Senators at both the Massachusetts and California State Capitols, as well as on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.
Lobbying has taught me negotiation skills, the need for contingency plans, and the ability to make quick yet
innovative decisions. Two years ago, I was appointed Director of Massachusetts Youth Public Affairs and asked
to be a member of the states Public Affairs Council. My responsibilities include developing, organizing, and
implementing the Foundations annual public policy objectives in an ultimately results-driven environment.
Through my experience with Putnam Associates and the March of Dimes, along with my modeling work in the
MIT Sloan Business School, I used my management skills to negotiate and consult with others, analytically design
a successful plan, and execute my ideas. I am confident that I can bring my strong, diverse technical and business
background to best fit the current needs and future ventures of Deloitte.
I welcome the opportunity to speak with you about my qualifications and ways that I can contribute to Deloitte.
Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
Jane Doe
http://gecd.mit.edu 49
Your Name
Address
Boston, MA 02215
February 10, 2012
Engineering Manager
Company Name
Address
Los Angeles, CA 92008
Dear Engineering Manager,
I will be graduating from MIT in June with a Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering
and am interested in opportunities at (name of company). I got your name from (website/
ICAN/other contact person). I am excited about the direction (name of company) is headed
and read from your website that you are continually producing innovative products and
quality customer service.
I feel that my experiences in both the workplace and at MIT have given me the skills to make
a valuable contribution to a future employer. I have taken courses in product design and
development, manufacturing, mechanical design, and management in engineering, in addition
to MITs general Mechanical Engineering course requirements. My thesis project is a cataract
cryoprobe prototype that should make a significant impact in third world countries, because
both doctors as well as trained medical technicians can administer this procedure. This past
summer at the Natural Energy Institute, I designed a polycarbonate pressure vessel that will
be used for deep-ocean alternative energy simulations.
I would very much like to speak with you further about how I can make a valuable
contribution to (your company). Please feel free to contact me by phone at (617) 555-5555 or
by email at student@mit.edu. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Your Name
50
http://gecd.mit.edu 51
7 Consultant Ave.
Cambridge, MA 02139
(617) XXX-XXXX
ceestudent@mit.edu
December 7, 2011
Mr. Phillip Norse
McKinsey & Company, Inc.
10 Innovation Drive
Orange County, CA 92617
Dear Mr. Norse,
I am a candidate for Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering at MIT, with a concentration on
decision analysis in complex engineering systems. I read your email regarding Operations Practice and talked to Ms.
ABC from the Istanbul Office. I am very interested in joining the Firm as an Operations Analyst. I believe that
a career in management consulting at McKinsey will provide the learning environment and the business exposure
necessary to grow as a powerful leader who can see the big picture.
Being at MIT has given me exceptional opportunities to broaden my vision through a wide variety of courses from
both engineering and management disciplines. Throughout my research studies, I applied those principles to develop
dynamic investment strategies for large-scale oil development projects. From the technical perspective, I have gained
extensive knowledge in complex decision analysis, stochastic modeling, optimization and software development.
More importantly, I developed strong interpersonal skills from working closely with many people with different
backgrounds, both in academia and industry. One notable experience is my research presentation to the senior
executives from BP, which funded my research project for two years. I learned a great deal about communicating
highly technical analysis to business people, which I believe is extremely important in management consulting.
Beyond my academic endeavors, I built a successful career as a professional tennis player where my commitment
to excellence, passion and hard work helped me win the title of Turkish Tennis Champion for four consecutive
years and gave me the honor to represent my country on the international arena. I learned to become successful in a
competitive environment, to stay committed and to think strategically. Also, I developed many personal skills from
involving myself in extracurricular activities. I took initiative in organizing the yearbook activities in college where
I gained significant leadership skills such as defining group objectives for a better team alignment and building trust
among various entities. I am confident that all these skills will enable me to add value to my role as a successful
consultant at McKinsey.
I am particularly interested in McKinsey & Company because it provides a great opportunity to have a worldshaping impact while solving the most challenging problems of the leading institutions around the globe. Operating
as one firm is one of McKinseys most distinctive characteristics, which helps it to become a true learning
organization. I am eager to be a part of this international network, learn from the experiences of people at McKinsey
and contribute to your company through my strong personality.
I would appreciate the opportunity to speak with you further about my qualifications and discuss how I can contribute
to McKinsey. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best Regards,
52
Your Name
000 Memorial Drive, # 0000
Cambridge, MA 02139
Professor XXXX
Search Committee, IT 989
Department of Mechanical Engineering
University of XXX
Address
City, State Zip
Dear Professor XXXX:
I am responding to your advertisement for a faculty position in the Department of Mechanical
Engineering at University of XXX. I graduated from the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics
at MIT in June with a Doctors degree, and am currently working as a Postdoctoral Associate at MIT
in the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics. My thesis work is in the area of active structural
acoustic control using smart structures technology, and my specific research topic is the development of
a new wavenumber domain sensing method for active structural acoustic control. My thesis advisor is
Professor X in the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics at MIT.
For my Ph.D. dissertation, I have worked on the development of the structural-acoustic control
algorithms and their implementation for the reduction of radiated noise from vibrating underwater
vehicles. The Office of Naval Research, with an objective of developing smart underwater
vehicle systems so that the enemy cannot detect their attack in advance, has funded this project. My
responsibility in this project is to develop the new technology to reduce the radiated noise from vibrating
underwater vehicles. In order to accomplish this, I have developed a new wavenumber domain sensing
method and applied it to the real-time estimation of acoustic power and the design of feedback controller
for active structural acoustic control of the general complex structures. Furthermore, I have designed and
experimentally implemented local and global controller architectures with different configurations to
find the best controller configuration for the new underwater vehicle system.
I would like to continue my research on active structural control and active structural acoustic control
for complex systems, including aerospace systems (aircrafts, helicopters) and underwater vehicles
(submarines, torpedoes). I will carry out research on structure/fluid/control interaction phenomena
and advanced sensor/actuator development using smart structures technologies. Also, I will extend my
research to the development of advanced control design techniques for noise and vibration reduction of
complex systems.
My ultimate research goal is to develop intelligent structural systems, which will contain arrays of
sensors and actuators, and embedded devices for controls and decision-making algorithms, so that those
systems can coordinate large numbers of devices and adapt themselves to uncertain environmental
changes in an intelligent manner. I believe my extensive research experience and specialization in
structural dynamics and controls will allow me to continue my research in those areas.
I have enclosed my curriculum vitae with a list of publications, and a list of references. If you have any
questions or would like to talk with me, I can be reached by phone at (617) XXX-XXXX or email at
sample@mit.edu. Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Your Name
Request for
Informational
Interview
http://gecd.mit.edu 53
54
Chapter 5.
Interviewing
Preparing for an Interview
Preparing for your first interview can be a little nerve-racking.
Good preparation will help you control the nervousness and
maximize your chances of a successful outcome.
One way to accomplish this is by looking at the results from
surveys of employers to discover what are the top characteristics they look for in job candidates.
Take a look at the Top 10 Personal Characteristics, start
taking a personal inventory and see how you measure up
in these categories. Think of one or two examples of how
you have proven yourself in these areas in the past and be
thoughtful about how these characteristics would be
valuable in the workplace environment that you are hoping
to get in to.
Do thorough company research including reading annual
reports, newspaper articles and trade journals. Look at
the company homepage to find out their mission statement, long-term goals, recent press releases, and to
view corporate photos. Do not limit your research only
to company-controlled information. Refer to Chapter 2:
Researching Employers.
http://gecd.mit.edu 55
STAR Method:
Action: Talk about the various actions involved in the situations task.
Results: What results directly followed because of your
actions?
Before the interview process, identify two or three of
your top selling points and determine how you will convey
these points (with demonstrated STAR stories) during the
interview.
It is helpful to frame your answer as a story that you can tell.
Typically, the interviewer will pick apart the story to try to
get at the specific behavior(s). The interviewer will sometimes ask you open-ended questions to allow you to choose
which examples you wish to use. When a part of your story
relates to a skill or experience the interviewer wishes
to explore further, he/she will then ask you very specific
follow-up questions regarding your behavior. These can
include What were you thinking at that point? or Tell me
more about your meeting with that person. or Lead me
through your decision making process.
Whenever you can, quantify your results. Numbers and
percentages illustrate your level of contribution and
responsibility. For example: I was a shift supervisor could
be enhanced by saying .... as Shift Supervisor, I trained
and evaluated four employees.
Be prepared to provide examples of when results did not
turn out as you planned. What did you do then? What did
you learn? Your resume will serve as a good guide when
answering these questions. Refresh your memory regarding
your achievements in the past couple of years. Use
examples from past internships, classes, activities, team
involvements, community service and work experience.
Situation: During my internship last summer, I was responsible for managing various events.
Task: I noticed that attendance at these events had
dropped by 30% over the past three years and wanted to do
something to improve these numbers.
Action: I designed a new promotional packet to go out to
the local community businesses. I also included a rating
sheet to collect feedback on our events and organized
internal round table discussions to raise awareness of the
issue with our employees.
Result: We used some of the wonderful ideas we received
from the community, made our internal systems more
efficient and visible and raised attendance by 18% the first
year.
MIT Global Education & Career Development
Wrap Up
The interview is not over until you walk out the door. The
conclusion of the interview usually lasts five minutes and is
very important. During this time the recruiter is assessing
your overall performance.
It is important to remain enthusiastic and courteous. Once
you take the cue that the interview is over, stand up, shake
the recruiters hand and thank him or her for considering you.
http://gecd.mit.edu 57
Company or Organization
The Close
Career Paths:
1.Can you tell me about the career path this position offers?
2.What percentage of the people are promoted from this
position? In how long?
3.Where does this position lead? How does it fit into the
organization?
4.About the people who have preceded me in this position
and in the department, where are they now, and what
are they doing?
5.Is it your usual policy to promote from within?
6.How are promotions or transfers determined within the
company?
7.Does advancement to upper management usually
require an advanced degree?
Telephone Interviews
Telephone Interviews have one advantage over the other
types of interviewsyou can have your preparation materials in front of you as the interview is taking place. Prepare
for a phone interview just as you would for a regular interview. Compile a list of your strengths and weaknesses, as
well as a list of answers to typical interview questions. (see
http://jobsearch.about.com/library/weekly/aa121000a.htm
for extra hints).
http://gecd.mit.edu 59
Take notes about what you were asked and how you
answered.
Follow with a thank-you note that reiterates your
interest in the job. For further hints see
http://jobsearch. about.com/library/weekly/aa082398.htm
Case Interviews
Certain employersespecially management consulting
firmsuse a case interview technique to determine how
well-suited you are to performing their type of work. Case
interviews are used to measure your problem solving ability,
your tolerance for ambiguity, and your communication skills
along several dimensions.
In a typical case interview, candidates are first introduced
to a business dilemma facing a particular company (often
drawn from the interviewers professional experience).
Next, depending on the length of the case, you will begin a
process in which you and the interviewer engage in an open
dialogue about various aspects of the case. Occasionally,
the interviewer will help to guide the discussion but will
often expect that you ask probing questions to uncover
key information about the case facts, identify key business
issues, and discuss how you move toward a possible
resolution. In this way, employers hope to learn about your
analytical skills, specifically, how you identify, structure,
and think through problems under pressure. Consequently,
your approach to a case is more important than the specific
content of your answers. Employers encourage that you
think out loud as you attempt to crack a case because it
allows the interviewer to evaluate your thought process.
Therefore, they will also evaluate your interpersonal skills
and ability to communicate your recommendations and
solutions to the presented business problem.
While there are many types of case interviews, most will
involve at least one of the three following components:
Brainteasers
Estimation (Market Sizing) Questions
A Specific Project or Business Case
Brainteasers
Brainteasers can be little or complex logic puzzles. These
can involve using some quick math and give you a chance
to demonstrate your conceptual skills to the interviewer.
Your answers should be thoughtful and include some
creativity in arriving at a solution.
MIT Global Education & Career Development
Next, the frameworks that you use to begin your analysis will
allow you to push deeper into each issue, starting with the
most important first. Questions to ask yourself about a case:
What additional information do I need to know?
What are the key issues to be addressed?
What are the key findings from the analysis?
What is my hypothesis for the solution?
Overall, as your interview progresses, listen carefully and
clarify anything you do not understand before proceeding.
Follow the interviewers lead. Each individual will have a
unique interviewing style and take you through the case in
different ways depending on his or her priorities.
What Employers Look for During a Case Interview
Enthusiasm for typical consulting issues
Ability to think out loud and brainstorm
Listening skills and the pace of candidates response
Ability to restate the problem and verify the objective of
the business or project
Conciseness and focus when possible
Use of sketches, charts, or diagrams to describe your
analysis and logic
Ability to create reasonable hypotheses and put them
to the test
Ability to summarize final recommendations in a clear
and concise way, identifying which case facts lead to
your solution
Confidence in your ideas
Common Mistakes to Avoid During a Case Interview
Ignoring the cues of the interviewer
Use of business terms in the wrong context
Asking open-ended questions throughout the entire
interview (or asking a long series of questions without
explaining why you need the information)
Making assumptions that utilize extremely large
numbers and percentages and not being able to use
them comfortably in your analysis
Appearing disorganized or having scattered notes on
the specific business or project case
Spending too much time analyzing the smaller aspects of
the case and not referring back to the big picture or problem
Not being able to respond well to criticism or questions
about your assumptions or your solutions
Additional Case Interview Resources
Many of the medium to large consulting firms that recruit
from universities have practice cases somewhere on their
website. As consulting firms increase their recruitment
of students from a diverse set of majors, employers are
looking to expose non-business and management majors to
the dynamics of case interviews that will help prepare
candidates for the interview process.
In addition to these websites, there are a variety of print,
online, and campus resources to help you.
MIT Sloan Business Club:
http://web.mit.edu/sebc/
http://gecd.mit.edu 61
If you are lucky, one round of the interview process will take
place over some sort of a meal setting. This could be the most
daunting meal of your career. Mental preparation is key! As
a rule of thumb, when you face a full battalion of knives, forks,
and spoons, start with the flatware the furthest from the
plate first. If you are unsure which fork to use for your salad
course, choose the one with the slightly smaller prongs.
http://gecd.mit.edu 63
Research
Psychological Preparation
Chances are that you will not know the person with whom
you will be negotiating very well. If you are lucky enough to
be acquainted, spend some time reviewing what you know
about this persons communication style and decisionmaking behavior.
In most cases this person will be a stranger. Be assured
that he or she will expect some level of negotiation, even
if it only relates to your start date. How will you psyche
yourself up to feel confident enough to ask for what you
want? How will you respond to counteroffers? What are
your alternatives? Whats your bottom line? In short, plan
your strategy.
Create a list of all the items you want to negotiate. Be sure
you know exactly what you want, not approximately. This
does not mean you will get everything you want, but having
information clearly outlined in your head will help you
determine where you can compromise in return for things
that are more important to you. Unless you know what
you want, you wont be able to tell somebody else. Clarity
improves communication, which is the conduit for effective
negotiations.
Vacation time
Paid personal leave and sick days
Medical / dental / health coverage
Child care or elder care
Discounts on the companys products and services
Gym membership
Stock options / annual bonuses
Retirement / disability and life insurance
Flexibility of hours
Relocation package
Professional memberships / affiliations
Tuition reimbursement for continued education
http://gecd.mit.edu 65
Chapter 6.
Academic Pathways
Throughout your MIT career, you will make many choices
related to academic pursuits. The Global Education and
Career Development Center can assist you with a broad
variety of career and global education choices, whether
you are a freshman or a graduate student in your final year.
More and more of our students are going global while at
MIT and our Global Education team can help you pursue
study abroad and work abroad experiences. Many undergraduates will consider graduate or professional school.
Graduate students may wish to pursue postdocs or faculty
positions within academic careers. The materials and
advice in this chapter can help you with some of these
decisions.
Global Experience
How can you incorporate study abroad, research
abroad, work abroad or service abroad into your
academic plan?
Urops/Internship Programs
Skills
Will you enjoy this major for its own intrinsic value?
Department Characteristics
66
Global Education
Global Education is the one-stop office where students
can visit for information and advice on how to go global!
We offer one-on-one advising sessions to help you identify
and explore the various options that best fit your academic
plans and your professional goals. In addition to this we can
help you with passports, visa information, health and safety
planning and cost-saving ideas for living overseas. We
offer a series of presentations and workshops, pre-departure and re-entry meetings and are here as a resource to
help you prepare for a meaningful and successful time
abroad.
In addition to general support related to global educational
opportunities, Global Education supports all counseling
of students who are seeking to study abroad and who are
interested in applying for a distinguished fellowship. We
are here to assist you in identifying the program(s) that best
fit your needs, prepare you for the transfer credit process,
and also work with you on health and safety and logistical
details such as housing and insurance coverage abroad.
Please find more information about specific study abroad
opportunities in the table on this page.
Program Type
Year-Long
MIT-Managed
Institute Wide
CME
Semester
IAP
MIT-Madrid
(spring only)
IAP-Madrid
Departmental
Political Science
Aero/Astro
Architecture
Materials Science
Direct Enrollment
Through MISTI
Summer
Examples include:
Examples include:
Ecole Polytechnique,
Ecole Polytechnique,
France France
Other Direct
Examples include:
Enrollment
LSE (General Course)
Technion, Israel
U. of Edinburgh
Examples include:
Universities in Australia
Technion, Israel
Barcelona, Spain
U. of Edinburgh
LSE
Outside Providers
Examples include:
Examples include:
Examples include:
Examples include:
Oxford, UK
Oxford, UK
Mexico
France
Australia
South Africa
Ireland
Germany
New Zealand
Turks & Caicos Islands
Argentina
Ireland
Spain, UK
http://gecd.mit.edu 67
Deadlines
Distinguished Fellowships
The GECD Distinguished Fellowships team, in 12-189, is
available to provide support and guidance for students
preparing applications for the most prestigious awards
for foreign study. In many cases, these awards pay for the
full costs of graduate programs or international research.
They are wonderful opportunities to further ones horizons without burdening oneself. These awards, including
but not limited to the Rhodes, Marshall, Mitchell, GatesCambridge, and Fulbright, have fostered the careers of the
worlds best students. Winners have gone on to become
a United States President, a leading string theorist (Brian
Greene), CEOs, and even MIT professors. Please keep in
mind that these types of awards require a great deal of
work and have extremely strict deadlines, so please visit
our website for the application schedule and deadlines. If
you are interested in learning more, please visit our website
http://gecd.mit.edu/goabroad/fellowships and contact
Kimberly Benard (benard@mit.edu or 617.253.4378) for an
appointment.
Key Qualities Valued in Distinguished Fellowship Competitions:
Strong Academic Record
History of Volunteering/Public Service
Desire for Further Research or Studies
Resources for
Graduate & Professional Schools
Range of Degrees
Graduate degrees include
M.S.= Master of Science
M.A.= Master of Arts
M.B.A.= Master of Business Administration
Ph.D.= Doctor of Philosophy
Sc.D.=Doctor of Science
M.D.= Doctor of Medicine
D.D.S.= Doctor of Dental Surgery
D.V.M.= Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
J.D.= Juris Doctor
LL.M.= Master of Laws
J.S.D.= Doctor of the Science of Law
MIT Global Education & Career Development
GPA
Prehealth Advising
Prehealth Advising staff work with students interested
in applying to medical, dental, and other health related
professional schools
http://gecd.mit.edu 69
Exploration
It is important to gain exposure to the health professions through informational interviews, shadowing, and
volunteering in health profession settings to ensure that a
medical/ health profession career is a good fit. The GECD
offers the following two programs to provide students with
opportunities to explore the field of medicine.
70
This program provides students the opportunity to experience a typical day for a physician and to explore different
areas of specialty in medicine. Shadow opportunities are
offered at the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), the
Tufts Medical Center, and Childrens Hospital Boston.
Application Process
Recommendation Letters
All applicants need at least three letters of recommendation. We recommend obtaining three to five letters, of
which two should be from a science professor and one
from a humanities professor.
It is important to choose your writers with care and good
judgment. Please be certain that the people you ask to write
letters for you will be writing the letter you expect. Meet
with them and discuss your reasons for wanting to pursue a
health career.
As a courtesy, give each recommender at least two months
to write your letter of recommendation. It is suggested that
your letters be from the following areas: science classes,
humanities classes, research experiences, and community
service or leadership experiences. Letters from faculty
members from a variety of academic disciplines are very
important.
Interviews
Academic Careers
Nearly half of the doctoral graduates of MIT pursue an
academic career (junior faculty position or postdoc) upon
completion of the doctoral degree. The Career Services
team offers several services for those considering an
academic career:
CV Workshopalso available online on our website
http://gecd.mit.edu.
Individual advice on any aspect of the academic
career search.
Academic Career Seriesfaculty and alumni presentations on various topics, co-sponsored by GECD,
Graduate Student Council, and Postdoctoral Advisory
Council (summers and throughout the year) .
Bibliographies and web links on academic careers
search our website http://gecd.mit.edu.
In addition, there are services available through the MIT
Writing Center http://web.mit.edu/writing (including
opportunities to practice the job talk) and the Teaching and
Learning Laboratory http://web.mit.edu/tll.
For information about Distinguished Fellowships
and other scholarship opportunities see
http://gecd.mit.edu/goabroad/fellowships.
http://gecd.mit.edu 71
My future research goal is to develop intelligent structural systems, from the micro-scales (MEMS) to
macro-scales (aerospace systems and underwater vehicles), which will contain array of sensor/actuator pairs
and embedded devices for controls and decision-making algorithms. Those systems should be able to coordinate
large numbers of devices and adapt themselves to uncertain environmental changes in an intelligent manner.
For this research goal, I will focus on the following three research areas. First, I will carry out research on structure/
fluid/control interaction phenomena for complex systems. The phenomena will be critical design issues in those
complex structural systems, both in micro- and macro- scales, so the fundamental understanding of the
phenomena is very important to successful implementation of the structural/acoustic control algorithms. Second,
I will extend my specialization in smart structures technologies to the development of advanced sensors and
actuators for intelligent structural systems. Since the systems will contain arrays of embedded devices, such as
micro-sensors and actuators, the development of novel sensors and actuators that can be coordinated and integrated
within the systems will be critical in future areas of research. Finally, I will continue my research on advanced
control and decision-making algorithms for noise and vibration reduction of complex structural systems. Some
of the important requirements of the algorithms include: (1) the ability to handle many sensors and actuators in an
efficient manner, (2) robustness to modeling error and uncertain environmental changes, (3) the ability to modify
their functions adaptively even in the unexpected change in the plant or environment, and (4) the ability to detect
the failure in the plant and maintain the performance by reconfiguring the algorithm architecture. As mentioned
earlier, I have developed the novel wavenumber domain feedback controller design method for active structural
acoustic control of complex structural systems, which satisfies the first and second requirements. I will continue
my research to improve the performance of the method, and therefore to develop intelligent control design
methodology for complex structural systems, so that those four requirements given above will be successfully
satisfied.
72
UNDERGRADUATE LEVEL
GRADUATE LEVEL
Advanced Structural Dynamics and AcousticsThis course would first review single and multipledegree-of-freedom vibration problems, using matrix formulation and normal mode superposition
methods. Then, this would present various topics in structural dynamics and acoustics, including time
and frequency domain solution, random vibration, vibration and noise measurement and analysis
techniques, wave motions in structures, structure/fluid interaction problems, and acoustic radiation.
Control of StructuresThis course would present fundamental control-structural dynamic
interaction from a unified viewpoint, applicable to active control of flexible structures, and active
structural acoustic control of structural systems.
Continuous and Discrete Time Signal ProcessingThis course would provide a theoretical
foundation of signal processing techniques necessary for mechanical engineers. This course would
focus on the analysis and processing of experimental data, and real-time experimental control methods,
including Laplace and Fourier transform, spectral analysis, filter design, system identification.
These present general topics and I would be happy to teach more specific courses according to the needs
of the students and the department.
http://gecd.mit.edu 73
Advertiser
Index
The Aerospace Corporation . . . . . . Inside Front Cover
Blizzard Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
BNP Paribus Corporate & Investment Banking . . . . . 15
Bracebridge Capital, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
BTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Citadel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
CNA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Cogo Labs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Earth Share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
ITT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Merck . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
MIT Lincoln Laboratory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
NAVSEA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Oliver Wyman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Open Access Technology
International, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Back Cover
Shell Oil Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Simpson Gumpertz & Heger Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
UCLA Engineering Online Masters Program . . . . . . . 74
Verizon Wireless . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Front Cover
76
Some bulbs
burn brighter
Open Access Technology International, Inc.
Energy Software Leader in North America
Visit OATI at www.oati.com or email your resume to jobs@oati.net
630.938.0200 CRMpubs.com